Everton are facing disappointment in their pursuit of Axel Witsel as Italian reports say he is set for Napoli.

Over the weekend the Goodison Park outfit were rated as the leading contenders to snare Belgium international Witsel after Russian claims Zenit St Petersburg, the midfielder’s current club, had denied being in talks with Napoli.

However, Italy’s Gazzetta dello Sport say Napoli have reached an agreement with both Zenit and the player and a deal is expected to be confirmed this week, while Radio Kiss Kiss Napoli have also claimed a deal is all but complete.

It is understood the Serie A side will pay a fee in the region of 25million euros for Witsel and the player has agreed a four-year deal at the Stadio San Paolo.

Witsel had been considered one of Everton boss Ronald Koeman’s top targets and the Dutchman will now have to look elsewhere as he bids to improve his midfield this summer.